What The 10 Most Stupid Automotive Locksmith Key Programming Mistakes Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
Automotive Locksmith Key Programming
Modern vehicles require some form of key programming. Based on the car's make and model, the procedure can be as simple as onboard programming using a spare key that works or as complicated as OBD2 or EEPROM programming.
Most US and Asian car manufacturers use the same programming protocols as auto tool manufacturers so that they can develop tools and hardware for automotive locksmiths to use.
Transponder Chips
Transponder chips are in a lot of modern cars to prevent car theft. These are tiny computer microchips that emit radio waves at a low level. The microchips are equipped with a unique serial number which authenticates your key whenever you insert it into the ignition barrel. If your car doesn't recognise the signal it will stop the engine. auto car key programmer has proved to be an incredible success in preventing auto theft. This technology has also helped car owners save a good amount of money as they do not have to replace their vehicles.
The basic idea behind the transponder system is to make it difficult for thieves to open the doors of your vehicle without a valid key. In the past, thieves would simply force the ignition switch of your car into the "on" position with an ordinary screwdriver or hot-wire the car to bypass the system altogether. These kinds of thefts have been dramatically reduced with the introduction of the transponder chip.
When you insert the transponder keys into the ignition the signal is picked up by an antenna hidden around the barrel. The antenna is programmed to match the frequency of the chip inside the key. The onboard computer in the car will then recognise the key as valid and will allow fuel flow, power the starter or start the engine.
Some vehicles only recognize a certain type of transponder chips, depending on the manufacturer. This is why it's important to ensure that your automotive locksmith is equipped to program your car's keys and fobs properly.
A reputable locksmith for automotive will utilize a multi-vehicle programmable device that can be used on a variety of different models and brands of cars. This is a far more cost-effective approach than purchasing individual tools for each brand of vehicle. There are also specific automotive key programmer devices that are only suitable for specific models of vehicles however, they are less common. The top automotive locksmiths are equipped to work on any vehicle. Be sure to choose an established company that has this kind of equipment.
Key FOBs

As the name implies, key FOBs are home to the programmable transponder chips that enable your vehicle to recognize and open the doors or start the engine using push-button ignition. You can also press buttons to activate features like trunk locks, door locks or control of the fuel flap. Certain fobs can be controlled with the press of buttons. For example an "smart key" that allows you summon your car to tight parking spaces, like a Tesla or Genesis GV60.
While some replacement key fobs can be programmed by you with the aid of a user's guide, you'll often need an automotive locksmith to have a new one programmed if yours stops working. A professional locksmith is better equipped to connect the computer of your car via the OBD port under the steering wheel.
Most key fobs today have security features that make it difficult for attackers to duplicate or copy the signals they transmit. They include pseudo-random generators that generate an entirely new unlock code every time you press the button on your key fob. This stops attackers from recording and replaying the unlock signal in order to gain access to your car.
In some cases you can purchase the replacement keyfob at an authorized dealer or another retailer. Your locksmith at your auto will then program it to work with your vehicle. This is because the majority of major US and Asian auto manufacturers have key-fob programming protocols with third-party companies that create the tools used by locksmiths for programming their customer's keys.
While some of the aftermarket key fobs are advertised as compatible with any vehicle However, the majority of locksmiths in the automotive industry don't recommend using them as they're likely to work poorly or not at all. Instead, they recommend purchasing fobs specifically designed for your specific vehicle so that you are certain they'll work properly and are less susceptible to issues like interfering or not working. This will save money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs or replacements of your fobs.
Vehicle Manufacturers' Programming Tool
The automotive industry has made great strides in the last few decades. Today's vehicles are computer-driven. One of the key components of this technology is a transponder chipset that needs to be programmed to the vehicle by an auto locksmith or dealer/mechanic order to function. Key fobs are fitted with security features to prevent hot-wiring, like in a movie. The car won't start if the keys are not correct.
Key fobs are a little more complex than your traditional mechanical keys and are the reason they are usually in the hands of an expert professional auto locksmith. The cost of the car key fob is dependent on the type and model of key, but it is usually between $85 to $400. This includes the labor to program the key fob as well as the costs for any necessary replacement parts.
To make the process more complicated the car key fobs use a special software system to work with the car's onboard computer. The software prevents unauthorised access by only allowing keys that have been programmed for a specific vehicle to function. If you replace your keys, you'll have to program the new key fob into the car in order for it to work.
This is done by using a programing tool for keys for cars that are compatible with the brand of your vehicle. This tool lets the locksmith connect to the onboard diagnostics port (OBD) in the vehicle and then enter an programming mode. The key programming device can be a handheld device that is affordable or extravagant and can do more than just program keys (like reading the eeprom file in the ECU).
Some people try to program their keys on their own using these tools. However this should be left to an expert auto locksmith. Unless you're familiar with all the aspects of the various software systems, it's possible to make a mistake and alter settings that could damage the vehicle. The most important thing to remember is that a skilled professional can assist you in avoiding these issues.
On-Board Programming
If your vehicle is older than you, you'll still have a traditional key made of metal that you can use to open the doors and turn on the ignition. Modern cars come with a transponder chip that must be recognized by the car's computer system in order to start. This adds another layer of security that prevents thieves from starting and driving away with a stolen vehicle. A locksmith who is certified has the tools and software required to program a key that can be compatible with your car's security system.
Your locksmith will first need to obtain a key blank that is that is compatible with the vehicle's make and model. Once your locksmith has the key, he will connect the scanner for programming to the diagnostic port of your vehicle. This will place the car into a special programing mode, which will allow locksmiths to connect the key to the system.
To do this, the key programming scanner will communicate with the car's computer system to transmit a particular code. The computer will be able to recognize the code and add it to the list of keys that are approved. In some cases, a scanner can also remove keys that have been stolen or lost.
The EEPROM programming method is a different one that can be used to program new car keys. It is more complex and requires a thorough understanding of electronic systems. It is best to delegate it to a professional who has knowledge of these systems.
Locksmiths can program a key quickly using onboard programming. It takes as little as an hour if everything is done correctly. If the key isn't in the right condition or the procedure isn't followed exactly, the process could take as long as a half hour.
There are many different key programmer scanners that support different makes and models of vehicles. Both the Smart Pro and Autel IM608 Pro have become extremely popular with locksmiths due to their wide selection of vehicle models. However, no system can be programmed for every single vehicle that exists. sell are also quite expensive. It is a good idea to purchase a computer that is updated regularly when the manufacturer introduces new technologies. Your programming machine will quickly become obsolete if you do not take this step.